Pancreatitis

Acute Pancreatitis

Acute pancreatitis is a sudden inflammation of the pancreas in which digestive enzymes are activated within the gland and begin to damage its own tissue. The most common causes are gallstones and heavy alcohol use. It typically presents with severe upper abdominal pain that radiates to the back, often with nausea and vomiting.

Chronic Pancreatitis

Chronic pancreatitis is a persistent, progressive inflammation that leads to irreversible scarring and loss of pancreatic function. It presents with recurrent or constant abdominal pain and, over time, with features of pancreatic insufficiency such as malabsorption and diabetes. Common causes include:

• Alcohol abuse
• Autoimmune conditions
• Hereditary factors
• Idiopathic causes

The cardinal symptom is upper abdominal pain, often radiating to the back and partially relieved by leaning forward. Nausea, vomiting, fever, and abdominal tenderness are common in acute disease. Chronic pancreatitis additionally causes weight loss and fatty, foul-smelling stools (steatorrhea) due to impaired digestion.

Diagnosis is supported by raised serum levels of the pancreatic enzymes amylase and lipase, particularly in acute disease. Imaging with ultrasound, CT, or MRI helps confirm inflammation, identify gallstones, and assess for complications and chronic changes such as calcification.

Can lead to reduced exocrine and endocrine function, as well as eventual cirrhosis and strictures of pancreatic ducts.